When changing jobs, it's normal to be asked, "Why are you leaving your current job?" Usually, people answer honestly, with responses such as:
"I don't like the boss." "I'm not paid enough." "Working hours are long."
However, in an interview, it's critical to change negative responses into positive ones. But the problem is, how do you change your negative reason to a positive one?
BOSS
A major reason for changing jobs is hating the boss. People can cope with coworkers and dysfunctional teams, but when that comes to direct line managers, many feel change is needed. There are numerous reasons why a person may dislike a bad boss: stubborn, poor listeners, reluctant to change, steals the limelight of achievement, and defers mistakes to others. In an interview, if you answer directly your feelings, without thinking through how the answer is received, the potential employer may fee the feedback reflects poorly on you. The interviewer may take your feedback as someone who lacks patience or runs when problems arise. To prevent this, you must make clear what and why you dislike your boss. Then, explain your reason to resign. For example, if your boss is conservative, you might answer:
"I wanted to challenge new methods and job opportunities under a boss who is outgoing and open to new ideas."
LOW SALARY
People work mainly for one reason: money. But even in an interview, leaving for low wages is generally regarded as poor reason to change jobs if not explained clearly. By focusing on salary, the interviewer may think one of two things: 1. your not paid because your skill-level, or 2. you have the skills and need aid more. You want the interviewer thinking you respect your previous company, have the skills, and deserve a higher wage. Though wages are certainly an important part of changing jobs, stay positive when answering this question. Focus on the value of your skills and achievements. Then put that in the context of their value in the market.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Work environment could mean many different things: long working hours, lack of employee benefits, bad transportation unrealistically high target, or any other factor difficult for you to control on your own. Therefore, saying you had a bad work environment is not specific for the hiring company. In this case, complaining about the work environment gives the feeling that you escape when the environment gets difficult. The fact is, this happens in every company and the interviewer will think this. Instead, figure out what about the working environment frustrated you and restate it positively. If you had a hard time with long working hours, say it like this: "In my previous job, I know how I could work more efficiently to increase productivity in a shorter time. Yet the work environment hampered individuals from showing such initiative. I would like to have the chance to work smarter, faster and accomplish more in the same time. I want to work for a company that measures results."
HARASSMENT
You might have to quit your job from experiencing harassment in the office. Even though this is a great reason to leave a job, as explained previously, refrain from presenting the negative. Some hiring managers might show interest in your story with a bad coworker or manager, but often the case you should stay positive and outgoing as much as possible. Therefore, state it as desiring career growth. A want for career growth always stresses the need for great skilled individuals or managers that promote growth helping you reach your potential.
